Craving great food without breaking the bank? We’ve scoured the U.S. to find the top budget-friendly restaurants in every state—plus some extra gems that deserve a shoutout.
From legendary diners and hole-in-the-wall taco spots to unbeatable pizza joints, these places prove delicious meals don’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re a local or road-tripping across America, here’s where to eat well for less.
1. Alabama – Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q
The smoked chicken with white sauce is a revelation. I always leave with a bottle of that tangy magic.
2. Alaska – Lucky Wishbone
Their pan-fried chicken is crispy perfection. A true Anchorage classic that never disappoints.
3. Arizona – Carolina’s Mexican Food
The tortillas are so fresh, they practically melt in your mouth. A must-visit for authentic Mexican fare in Phoenix.
4. Arkansas – Hugo’s
Nestled in a cozy basement, their burgers are legendary. Don’t skip the grasshopper crepes for dessert.
5. California – Tacos El Gordo
The adobada tacos are a flavor explosion. Worth every minute of the wait in line.
6. Colorado – Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs
Elk jalapeño cheddar dog? Yes, please. A wild twist on the classic hot dog experience.
7. Connecticut – Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
The white clam pizza is a game-changer. Coal-fired crust with a perfect char every time.
8. Delaware – Dog House Sandwich Shop
Foot-long hot dogs loaded with toppings. A nostalgic spot that hits all the right notes.
9. Florida – La Sandwicherie
Fresh baguettes piled high with meats and veggies. Their vinaigrette is the secret weapon.
10. Georgia – The Busy Bee Cafe
Fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside, juicy inside. A soul food haven in Atlanta.
11. Hawaii – Rainbow Drive-In
Loco moco that satisfies every craving. A plate lunch paradise in Honolulu.
12. Idaho – Hudson’s Hamburgers
Simple, no-frills burgers done right. A Coeur d’Alene staple since 1907.
13. Illinois – Jim’s Original
The Maxwell Street Polish is iconic. Open late for those midnight cravings.
14. Indiana – Nick’s Kitchen
Home of the original breaded pork tenderloin sandwich. A Hoosier tradition that lives up to the hype.
15. Iowa – Canteen Lunch in the Alley
Loose-meat sandwiches served in a tiny, charming spot. A step back in time with every bite.
16. Kansas – Bobo’s Drive-In
Carhop service and root beer floats. Their onion rings are crispy perfection.
17. Kentucky – Indi’s Fast Food
Spicy fried chicken that packs a punch. Quick service without compromising flavor.
18. Louisiana – Mother’s Restaurant
Debris po’ boys overflowing with juicy roast beef. A New Orleans institution through and through.
19. Maine – Palace Diner
Only a few seats, but worth the wait. Their flapjacks are fluffy and unforgettable.
20. Maryland – Chap’s Pit Beef
Charcoal-grilled beef sandwiches piled high. A Baltimore favorite for good reason.
21. Massachusetts – Sam LaGrassa’s
Overstuffed sandwiches with premium meats. Lunchtime lines move fast, and it’s worth it.
22. Michigan – Taqueria El Rey
Grilled chicken that’s smoky and tender. A hidden gem in Detroit’s food scene.
23. Minnesota – Al’s Breakfast
Tiny diner with big flavors. Their pancakes are legendary in Minneapolis.
24. Mississippi – Ajax Diner
Comfort food at its finest. The meatloaf and mac ‘n’ cheese combo is unbeatable.
25. Missouri – Blues City Deli
Live blues music and stacked sandwiches. A vibrant spot that feeds the soul.
26. Montana – The Pickle Barrel
Sub sandwiches the size of your forearm. The best fuel for a day of adventure.
27. Nebraska – Runza
Stuffed sandwiches filled with seasoned beef and cabbage. A Nebraska original that’s oddly addictive.
28. Nevada – Ronald’s Donuts
Vegan donuts that defy expectations. A sweet surprise in Las Vegas.
29. New Hampshire – Red Arrow Diner
Open 24/7 with a menu that has it all. A Manchester staple for late-night eats.
30. New Jersey – White House Subs
Subs loaded with meats and fresh toppings. A must-stop in Atlantic City.
31. New Mexico – Frontier Restaurant
Breakfast burritos smothered in green chile. A beloved Albuquerque institution.
32. New York – Xi’an Famous Foods
Hand-pulled noodles with bold, spicy flavors. A unique taste of Western China in NYC.
33. North Carolina – Saltbox Seafood Joint
Fresh, locally sourced seafood cooked to perfection. A Durham treasure for seafood lovers.
34. North Dakota – Kroll’s Diner
You haven’t lived until you’ve tried their knoephla soup on a freezing Dakota day. I legit plan layovers just to sneak in a bowl.
35. Ohio – Terry’s Turf Club
It’s kitschy, it’s loud, and the burgers? Unapologetically massive and dripping with cheese.
36. Oklahoma – Nic’s Grill
You’ll smell the burgers from the parking lot and that’s your sign to cancel plans. The counter seating is tight, the burgers are sloppy, and I love every messy second.
37. Oregon – Pine State Biscuits
One bite of their Reggie Deluxe and I nearly moved to Portland. Crispy fried chicken + gravy + biscuit = full-body joy.
38. Pennsylvania – John’s Roast Pork
Honestly? I like their cheesesteak more than the famous ones. That seeded roll and juicy meat combo haunts my dreams.
39. Rhode Island – Olneyville New York System
It’s 2 a.m. and you’re craving something salty and weirdly perfect? Get the hot wieners. You’ll question your choices mid-bite and then order another round.
40. South Carolina – Page’s Okra Grill
It’s the kind of place where shrimp and grits actually make you emotional. Southern hospitality is real—and it tastes like this.
41. South Dakota – Phillips Avenue Diner
Retro charm, spiked shakes, and pancakes the size of your head. I didn’t mean to fall in love here, but the Elvis waffle seduced me.
42. Tennessee – Mitchell Delicatessen
It’s a deli, sure, but the Banh Mi is what you’re here for. That baguette crackles like a campfire, and don’t get me started on the pork.
43. Texas – The Taco Joint
I’ve waited in the Texas sun for these tacos and I’d do it again with no regrets. The chorizo-potato combo should be illegal, it’s so good.
44. Utah – Red Iguana
The mole alone is worth hopping on a flight to Salt Lake. Rich, layered, a little spicy—it makes most sauces feel like ketchup.
45. Vermont – Handy’s Lunch
Old-school charm in sandwich form. Their “SOS” gravy and toast situation is the kind of hangover cure I didn’t know I needed.
46. Virginia – Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que
Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que in Virginia is a rustic spot known for its pit-cooked meats. This lively BBQ joint offers a taste of Southern tradition, with each dish prepared with love and care.
The menu features a variety of options, from tender ribs to smoky pulled pork, each bursting with flavor.
47. Washington – Beth’s Cafe
A 12-egg omelet? Yes, it’s absurd. But when you’re cozy in a booth at 3 a.m. and they drop it at your table, life just makes sense.
48. West Virginia – King Tut Drive-In
Retro vibes, crinkle fries, and milkshakes that taste like childhood. The neon sign lured me in, but the fried fish sandwich made me stay.
49. Wisconsin – Kopp’s Frozen Custard
Their burgers are thick, juicy, and unapologetically greasy. But let’s be real—you’re here for the custard and yes, it’s as creamy as everyone says.
50. Wyoming – Luxury Diner
Housed in an actual train car, and they serve cinnamon rolls the size of your face. I once drove through Cheyenne just for breakfast—and I’d do it again.
51. Dew Drop Inn – Alabama
Nestled in the heart of Mobile, Alabama, the Dew Drop Inn serves up nostalgia with every meal. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a piece of local history.
Known for its famous hot dogs and seafood gumbo, this spot has been a favorite since 1924.
52. The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint – Mississippi
In Ocean Springs, Mississippi, The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint is where food and music collide.
This vibrant spot is famous for its award-winning barbecue and live blues performances.